George Safford Parker facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
George Safford Parker
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| Born | November 1, 1863 |
| Died | July 19, 1937 (aged 73) |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | Upper Iowa University |
| Occupation | Engineer |
| Engineering career | |
| Significant design | Fountain pen |
| Significant advance | Fountain pen |
George Safford Parker was a clever American inventor and a successful businessman. He is best known for starting the famous Parker Pen Company. George Parker's ideas changed how people wrote forever.
Contents
Who Was George Parker?
George Safford Parker was born on November 1, 1863. His hometown was Shullsburg, Wisconsin. He grew up to be a very creative person. He always looked for ways to make things better.
Early Life and Education
George Parker went to Upper Iowa University in Fayette, Iowa. He studied hard and learned many things. This education helped him later in life. It prepared him for his future as an inventor.
The Problem with Pens
Before he became famous, George Parker worked as a teacher. He taught telegraphy in Janesville, Wisconsin. To earn extra money, he also fixed and sold fountain pens.
Fixing Leaky Pens
Back then, fountain pens were not very good. They often leaked ink. This made them messy and unreliable. George Parker was tired of these problems. He decided to do something about it. He started trying to find ways to stop the ink from leaking.
Inventing Better Pens
George Parker spent a lot of time experimenting. He wanted to make a pen that worked perfectly. He tried different designs and materials. His goal was to create a pen that writers could trust.
The Parker Pen Company
In 1888, George Parker decided to start his own company. He called it the Parker Pen Company. This company would make his improved pens. The next year, in 1889, he received his first patent for a fountain pen. This meant his invention was officially recognized.
A Global Success
The Parker Pen Company grew very quickly. By 1908, his factory was huge. It was located on Main Street in Janesville. People said it was the biggest pen factory in the world! Parker pens became known for their quality. They were sold all over the world. This made Parker one of the first truly global brands.
George Parker's Legacy
George Safford Parker passed away on July 19, 1937. But his inventions and company live on. He left a lasting mark on the world.
Honoring His Name
Today, a high school in Janesville, Wisconsin, is named after him. It is called George S. Parker High School. This shows how important he was to his community. George Parker's story is a great example. It shows how one person's idea can change the world.
